What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When purchasing a commercial coffee machine, there are a variety of factors to consider. The kind of espresso machine right for your cafe will be determined by the quantity and purpose of use and barista skills.
A double boiler system provides the capability of brewing and steam simultaneously. It also reduces recovery time between pulls. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) temperature control manages on/off cycles for optimal boiler temperatures.
Productivity
A commercial espresso machine can handle a higher amount of coffee than a home machine. The idea of allowing a home espresso machine to function in a professional setting could be an unintentional recipe for disaster.
A commercial machine of high quality can serve up to 100 coffee cups every hour during peak hours. This can be a lifesaver in busy workplaces, since it prevents workers from waiting to get their coffee.
A coffee machine can also aid in bonding between workers. Often, teams of employees have a turn getting coffee for each other and this can help encourage teamwork and collaboration in the workplace. A dedicated coffee area can make new employees feel more comfortable in the workplace and break down the barriers between them, senior staff members and other workers.
Commercial espresso machines are available in different sizes to meet a variety of requirements. Some models are fully automated while others have the ability to pre-program espresso shot sizes so that the operators don't have to guess the correct size. This is particularly crucial for businesses with baristas that aren't properly trained, as inaccurate shots can alter the intensity and taste of brewed espresso. It is also advisable to buy commercial espresso machines made from ethically sourced products that benefit the communities in which coffee beans are cultivated. This will ensure that the product is of high quality and minimize the negative impact to the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines can cost as much money as a compact car. They are designed to make hundreds of shots and drinks in one day. This high volume operation can result in unique risk to health and safety for staff, so it's important to take into account the potential dangers that come with an espresso machine that is commercially used.
Keep in mind that commercial espresso machines tend to utilize warm water. This can lead to the growth of bacteria. Poorly maintained machines that are not regularly cleaned and descaled will accumulate spent espresso. This can cause it to go rancid, and potentially cause illness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with steam wands that don't have a seal that is effective could allow for the growth of bacterial in the milk frothing mechanism, as it might not be able reach temperatures high enough to eliminate all bacteria.
When you are choosing the best commercial espresso machine, it's important to consider the kind of drinks you'll serve and how many cups your space can handle. You should look for a machine with automation features that make it easier to serve your customers your favorite coffee drink. Look for a warranty which includes both parts and labor. This will guarantee that any technical issues will be solved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
The power requirements of commercial espresso machines are much more powerful than those used in home settings. This is because professional espresso machines have more powerful frames and larger boilers to handle the multiple group heads required for normal cafe production. These machines operate at a higher temperature and are generally located inside (such as in a cafe or restaurant) where the electronics can overheat.
The boiler of an espresso machine for commercial use heats and stores water which has been pressurized using an electric pump. The water is used to brew and steam espresso. The boiler consists of multiple copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. When the brew sensor is able to detect that the water level has reached its target level the solenoid valve is opened and fills the boiler with fresh water. The heating element is then shut off.
There are four variants of espresso machines, distinguished by their ability to steam and brew: The TB (brewing only), TX (twin boilers) HX, TB, and DA (double automatic). small espresso machine and TX machines have stable brew temperatures while DA offers rapid steaming from one boiler. HX machines are being used by many cafes as they offer the best in both steam and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines require regular maintenance as do cars. They must be maintained to function efficiently and smoothly. If you keep your machine in good condition and you are able to enjoy a more flavorful coffee and will last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is a daily ritual, but it's vital to clean certain components at a deeper level. There will be residues from coffee grounds and other milk products that can cause the machine to fail over time. Regular cleaning will keep your espresso machine in great condition.
The majority of espresso machines in commercial use require descaling at least every 3 months. This procedure requires a few extra steps as opposed to normal cleaning. It is recommended to review your manual so that you follow all the instructions. The solution used to clean the tank dissolves the scale. To do this it is necessary to put a container underneath the steam wand and, in certain models, under the coffee spouts. Follow the steps for your particular model.
A water filter change is another maintenance process. This is a step that can be overlooked but is important to keep in mind so you don't end up with a build-up of mineral deposits. You'll also want to check for calcification in the spray head, which can be difficult to remove.